Selectively moveable valve elements for aspiration and irrigation circuits

ABSTRACT

Various arrangements of fluidics systems are disclosed. In one arrangement, an aspiration circuit for a fluidics system is disclosed that selectively controls aspiration. The aspiration circuit comprises an aspiration line operatively connected to a surgical instrument, an aspiration exhaust line operatively connected to a waste receptacle; an aspiration vent line connected at a first end to the aspiration line; and a selectively variable vent valve operatively connected to the aspiration vent line. The variable vent valve may be selectively moved to vary aspiration pressure within the aspiration line. Other fluidics systems are disclosed that include a selectively positionable irrigation valve that may also be incorporated into a fluidics system that includes a variable vent valve.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application:

(a) is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/334,662,titled “SELECTIVELY MOVEABLE VALVE ELEMENTS FOR ASPIRATION ANDIRRIGATION CIRCUITS”, filed on Oct. 26, 2016, whose inventors are GaryP. Sorensen and Michael D. Morgan, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 13/685,860, titled “SELECTIVELY MOVEABLEVALVE ELEMENTS FOR ASPIRATION AND IRRIGATION CIRCUITS”, filed on Nov.27, 2012, whose inventors are Gary P. Sorensen, Michael D. Morgan, andMel M. Oliveira, and

(b) claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 61/568,220 (U.S. patent application Ser. Nos.15/334,662 and 13/685,860 claimed the benefit of priority of provisionalapplication Ser. No. 61/568,220, titled “SELECTIVELY MOVEABLE VALVEELEMENTS FOR ASPIRATION AND IRRIGATION CIRCUITS”, filed on Dec. 8, 2011,whose inventors are Gary P. Sorensen, Michael D. Morgan, and Mel M.Oliveira).

All three of the above applications are hereby incorporated by referencein their entirety as though fully and completely set forth herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to surgical systems andmethods. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to systemsand methods for controlling fluid flow in aspiration and/or irrigationcircuits during a surgical procedure using one or more selectivelymoveable valve elements.

BACKGROUND

The human eye functions to provide vision by transmitting light througha clear outer portion called the cornea, and focusing the image by wayof the lens onto the retina. The quality of the focused image dependsupon many factors including the size and shape of the eye, and thetransparency of the cornea and lens.

When age or disease causes the lens to become less transparent, visiondeteriorates because of the diminished light which can be transmitted tothe retina. This deficiency in the lens of the eye is known as acataract. Ophthalmic surgery is required for treating this condition.More specifically, surgical removal of the deteriorated lens andreplacement with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

One known technique for removing cataractous lenses isphacoemulsification. During this procedure, a thin phacoemulsificationcutting tip is inserted into the diseased lens and vibratedultrasonically. The vibrating cutting tip liquefies or emulsifies thelens so that the diseased lens may be aspirated out of the eye. Onceremoved, an artificial lens is inserted therein.

A typical ultrasonic surgical device suitable for ophthalmic proceduresincludes an ultrasonically driven handpiece, an attached cutting tip, anirrigation sleeve and an electronic control console. The handpieceassembly is attached to the control console by an electric cable andflexible tubing. Through the electric cable, the console varies thepower level transmitted by the handpiece to the attached cutting tip andthe flexible tubing supplies irrigation fluid to, and draws aspirationfluid from, the eye through the handpiece assembly.

The operative part of the handpiece includes a hollow resonating bar orhorn directly attached to a set of piezoelectric crystals. The crystalssupply the required ultrasonic vibration needed to drive both the hornand the attached cutting tip during phacoemulsification and arecontrolled by the console. The crystal/horn assembly is suspended withinthe hollow body or shell of the handpiece. The handpiece body terminatesin a reduced diameter portion or nosecone at the body's distal end. Thenosecone accepts the irrigation sleeve. Likewise, the horn bore receivesthe cutting tip. The cutting tip is adjusted so that the tip projectsonly a predetermined amount past the open end of the irrigating sleeve.

In use, the ends of the cutting tip and irrigating sleeve are insertedinto a small incision of predetermined size in the cornea, sclera, orother location of the eye. The cutting tip is ultrasonically vibratedalong its longitudinal axis within the irrigation sleeve by thecrystal-driven ultrasonic horn, thereby emulsifying the selected tissuein situ. A hollow bore of the cutting tip communicates with the bore inthe horn that in turn communicates with the aspiration line from thehandpiece to the console. A reduced pressure or vacuum source in theconsole draws or aspirates the emulsified tissue from the eye throughthe open end of the cutting tip, through the cutting tip and horn boresand through the aspiration line, into a collection device. Theaspiration of emulsified tissue is aided by a saline flush solution orirrigant that is injected into the surgical site through a small annulargap between the inside surface of the irrigating sleeve and the cuttingtip.

Known phacoemulsification systems may even use a surgical cassette toprovide a variety of functions for vitreoretinal surgical procedures toassist with effectively managing irrigation and aspiration flows intoand out of the surgical site through the surgical device. Morespecifically, the cassette acts as the interface between surgicalinstrumentation and the patient and delivers pressurized irrigation andaspiration flows into and out of the eye. A variety of pumping systemshave been used in connection with a surgical cassette in fluidicssystems for cataract surgery, including positive displacement systems(most commonly, peristaltic pumps) and vacuum based aspiration sources.A peristaltic system uses a series of rollers acting upon an elastomericconduit to create flow in the direction of rotation, while vacuum basedsystems employ a vacuum source, typically applied to the aspiration flowthrough an air-liquid interface.

During surgical procedures, the hollow, resonating tip can becomeoccluded with tissue. In such an instance, vacuum can build in theaspiration line downstream of the occlusion. When the occlusioneventually breaks apart, this pent up vacuum can, depending upon vacuumlevel and the amount of aspiration path compliance, draw a significantamount of fluid from the eye, thereby increasing the risk of anteriorchamber shallowing or collapse. This situation is commonly referred toas occlusion break surge.

To address this concern, surgical consoles are configured with sensorsin the aspiration path to allow detection of vacuum level and limitingof vacuum by the system to a predetermined maximum level. While limitingthe maximum vacuum level in such a manner may be effective to reduce thepotential magnitude of an occlusion break surge, such limitations on themaximum vacuum level can reduce effectiveness of lens removal andincrease overall surgical time. In some systems, an audible indicationof relative vacuum level and/or vacuum reaching the user preset limitmay be provided so that the surgeon can take appropriate precautions.

For example, in some systems, vacuum is commonly relieved upon a commandfrom the surgeon to open a vent valve that connects the aspiration lineto a pressure source that is maintained at or above atmosphericpressure. Depending upon the system, this might be the irrigation line,the pump exhaust line or a line connected to atmospheric air (airventing system). However, there are some concerns with known ventvalves. First, known vent valves are only configured for simple “on/off”action. For example, pinched tubing valves or elastomer dome type valvesmay provide satisfactory on/off control of fluid flow but do not exhibitconsistent variable flow characteristics. As such, this type of valvehas a very sharp surge recovery curve. Moreover, the configuration ofdome type valves also may present operational challenges. For example,the operation of the valve is highly dependent upon the elastomermaterial to obtain a proper seat position, thus consistency of thematerial is very important. Further, the flow through the valve may alsobecome clogged by debris if the opening formed by the elastomer issmall. In addition, such a configuration may undesirably trap airbubbles. Use of these type of valves is also limited in that due to thenature of the on/off flow control limitation, an array of valves areneed to support directing fluid flow from one circuit to another.

Alternatively, vacuum may be reduced or relieved by reversal of the pumprotation in positive displacement systems. While it is known to employ asystem having bi-directional pump rotation to allow control ofpressure/vacuum level based on user input and feedback from a pressuresensor in the aspiration line, such a system requires rapid accelerationand deceleration of the pump head mass. This can limit response time andcause objectionable acoustical noise.

Known cassettes used with consoles also allow the aspiration line to bevented, either to atmosphere or to a liquid so as to reduce or eliminatevacuum surge upon occlusion break. Prior art air vented cassettes allowambient air to enter the aspiration line, however, venting air into theaspiration line changes the fluidic performance of the aspiration systemby greatly increasing aspiration path compliance. Increased compliancecan significantly increase the magnitude of occlusion break surge andalso negatively affect system responsiveness. Liquid venting systemsallow irrigation fluid to bleed into the aspiration line, therebyreducing any impact on the fluidic performance of the aspiration system.When higher aspiration vacuums are used, cassettes that vent theaspiration line to the irrigation line can cause high pressure surges inthe irrigation line. Other systems provide a separate source ofirrigation fluid to vent the aspiration line, requiring the use of twoirrigation fluid sources and increasing the cost and complexity of thesystem.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Various arrangements of fluidics systems are disclosed. In one exemplaryarrangement, an aspiration circuit for a fluidics system is proposedthat selectively controls aspiration. For example, one exemplaryaspiration circuit comprises an aspiration line operatively connected toa surgical instrument, an aspiration exhaust line operatively connectedto a waste receptacle; an aspiration vent line connected at a first endto the aspiration line; and a selectively variable vent valveoperatively connected to the aspiration vent line. The variable ventvalve may be selectively actuated to vary aspiration pressure within theaspiration line. In another exemplary arrangement, the variable ventvalve is configured as a multi-purpose valve that can vary aspirationpressure and selectively interrupt irrigation fluid flow. In yet anotherexemplary arrangement, the variable vent valve is configured as amulti-purpose valve that can vary aspiration pressure, as well as directaspiration from either a displacement-based and/or vacuum-basedaspiration source.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now by described byway of example in greater detail with reference to the attached figures,in which:

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary arrangement of aperistaltic pump used in a phacoemulsification machine for ophthalmicprocedures.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a surgical console that may be used in aphacoemulsification machine.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary arrangement of a phacofluidics system for a phacoemulsification machine having selectivelyvariable vent valve disposed between an aspiration line and anaspiration exhaust line.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary configuration of avariable vent valve for use in a phaco fluidics system.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary arrangement of a phacofluidics system for a phacoemulsification machine having selectivelyvariable vent valve disposed between an aspiration line and atmosphere.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary arrangement of a phacofluidics system for a phacoemulsification machine having selectivelyvariable vent valve disposed between an aspiration line and a ventpressure source.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary arrangement of a phacofluidics system for a phacoemulsification machine having selectivelyvariable vent valve disposed between an aspiration line and anirrigation line.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary arrangement of a phacofluidics system for a phacoemulsification machine having selectivelyvariable vent valve disposed between an aspiration line and anaspiration exhaust line, and a multi-position irrigation valve.

FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary irrigation valve foruse in the phaco fluidics system of FIG. 8.

FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of an alternative exemplary irrigationvalve for use in a phaco fluidics system.

FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram of an exemplary arrangement of a phacofluidics system for a phacoemulsification machine incorporating themulti-position irrigation valve of FIG. 9B in an “off” position.

FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram of an exemplary arrangement of a phacofluidics system for a phacoemulsification machine incorporating themulti-position irrigation valve of FIG. 9B in an “irrigation” position.

FIG. 10C is a schematic diagram of an exemplary arrangement of a phacofluidics system for a phacoemulsification machine incorporating themulti-position irrigation valve of FIG. 9B in a “shunt” position.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary arrangement of a phacofluidics system for a phacoemulsification machine having a multi-purposevalve disposed between an aspiration line and an irrigation line.

FIG. 12A is a partially exploded perspective view of an exemplarymulti-purpose valve and a surgical cassette for use in the phacofluidics system of FIG. 11.

FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the multi-purpose valve takenalong lines 12B-12B in FIG. 12A.

FIG. 13 is a partial schematic diagram of an aspiration circuit for anexemplary arrangement of a phaco fluidics system that employs amulti-aspiration pump system using both venturi and peristaltic pumpsystems.

FIG. 14A is a schematic diagram of an exemplary configuration of amulti-purpose valve in a fully open position between the aspiration lineand an input port of the pump such that full vacuum pressure isdelivered through the aspiration line to the handpiece.

FIG. 14B is a schematic diagram of the multi-purpose valve in a partialopen opposition between the aspiration line and the aspiration exhaustline, as well as between the aspiration line and an input port of thepump.

FIG. 14C is a schematic diagram of the multi-purpose valve in a fullyopen position with the venturi reservoir such that aspiration isdirected from same.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the discussion that follows and also to the drawings,illustrative approaches to the disclosed devices and methods are shownin detail. Although the drawings represent some possible approaches, thedrawings are not necessarily to scale and certain features may beexaggerated, removed, or partially sectioned to better illustrate andexplain the present disclosure. Further the descriptions set forthherein are not intended to be exhaustive or otherwise limit or restrictthe claims to the precise forms and configurations shown in the drawingsand disclosed in the following detailed description.

Phacoemulsification machines are typically used in cataract eye surgeryto remove cataract-affected eye lenses, such machines typically employfluidics systems for introducing irrigative fluid into the surgicalsite, as well as providing aspiration from the surgical site to removeemulsified tissue. In some known systems a positive displacement system,such as a pump, is employed to provide appropriate aspiration. Referringto FIG. 1, an exemplary arrangement of a pump 20 for aphacoemulsification system is shown. Pump 20 includes a pump motor 22and a roller head 24 containing one or more rollers 26. Pump 20 may beused in combination with a cassette 28 having an elastomeric sheet 30applied to the exterior of a relatively rigid body or substrate 32. Pumpmotor 22 may be a stepper or DC servo motor. Roller head 24 is attachedto a shaft 34 of pump motor 22 such that pump motor 22 rotates rollerhead 24 in a plane generally perpendicular to the axis A-A of shaft 34.Shaft 34 may also contain a shaft position encoder 36.

Sheet 30 of cassette 28 contains a fluid channel 38 that may be moldedtherein, channel 38 being configured to be generally planar and arcuatein shape (within the plane). Fluid channel 38 has a radius approximatingthat of rollers 26 about shaft 34.

Cassette 28 is designed to be mounted in a cassette receiver 36 of aconsole 40 (as shown in FIG. 2). Cassette 28 operatively couples console40 to a handpiece 42 (an exemplary schematic arrangement of handpiece 42is shown in FIG. 3). Handpiece 42 generally includes an infusion sleeve44 and a tip member 46, whereby tip member 46 is positioned coaxiallywithin infusion sleeve 44. Tip member 46 is configured for insertioninto an eye 47. Infusion sleeve 44 allows irrigation fluid to flow fromconsole 40 and/or cassette 28 into the eye. Aspiration fluid may also bewithdrawn through a lumen of tip member 46, with console 40 and cassette28 generally providing aspiration/vacuum to tip member 46. Collectively,the irrigation and aspiration functions of phacoemulsification system 10are hereby referred to as a phaco fluidics system 11.

Referring now to FIG. 3, an exemplary phaco fluidics system 11 will bedescribed for use with a positive displacement system (i.e., pump 20).Infusion sleeve 44 of handpiece 42 is connected to an irrigation source48, which contains an irrigation fluid, by suitable tubing (i.e.,irrigation line 50). In one exemplary arrangement, irrigation source 48may be a pressurized irrigation source (e.g., a bag of irrigation fluidthat is selectively compressed to deliver irrigation fluid to anirrigation supply line). Tip member 46 is connected to an input port 53of a pump, such as pump 20, by a length a suitable tubing (i.e.,aspiration line 52).

An aspiration exhaust line 54 extends from pump 20. In one exemplaryarrangement, aspiration exhaust line 54 is fluidly connected to a drainline reservoir 56. Reservoir 56 may also drain into an optional drainbag 58. Alternatively, as shown in phantom, exhaust line 54′ may befluidly connected directly to drain bag 58.

An aspiration vent line 60 is fluidly connected between aspiration line52 and aspiration exhaust line 54. Vent line 60 is configured as abypass circuit. A vent valve 62, to be discussed in further detailbelow, is fluidly connected to aspiration vent line 60 so as toselectively control the aspiration pressure within aspiration line 52. Apressure sensor 63 is also in fluid communication with aspiration line52 to detect aspiration pressure within aspiration line 52. Pressuresensor 63 is also operatively connected to a control system in console40. The control system may be configured to provide pre-set aspirationpressure levels for fluidics system 11, as will be explained below infurther detail.

As described above, irrigation source 48, which may be pressurized, isfluidly connected to handpiece 42 by irrigation line 50. An irrigationvalve 64 is fluidly connected to and positioned between irrigation line50 and infusion sleeve 44. Irrigation valve 64 provides selective on/offcontrol of irrigation fluid in irrigation line 50.

Vent valve 62 is configured to provide a variable orifice size withinvent line 60 to selectively modulate aspiration within aspiration line52. More specifically, use of a variable vent valve 62 enablesunidirectional rotation of pump 20 in a first direction to generateflow/vacuum, while permitting a mechanism for dynamically controllingaspiration pressure to handpiece 42. In one exemplary vent valve 62 maybe configured as a multi-position rotary type valve that would allowpredictable and precise control of the orifice size based on angularposition of vent valve 62 within vent line 60.

An exemplary configuration of vent valve 62 is shown in FIG. 4. In FIG.4, in one exemplary configuration, multi-position vent valve 62 includesa channel 66 defined by first and second openings 68 and 69. Whilechannel 66 is shown in FIG. 4 as being generally uniformly sized fromfirst opening 68 to second opening 69, it is understood that channel 66may be configured with a variable size. For example, first 68 and secondopenings 69 may be configured with a diameter that is larger than acentral portion of channel 66 such that first and second openings 68 and69 flare outwardly toward a periphery 70 of vent valve 62.

In operation, vent valve 62 is selectively rotatable in an aspirationcircuit, such that the angular position of channel 68 is selectivelymoveable within vent line 60. Such movement may full open, partiallyocclude, and/or completely occlude, first and second opening 68 and 69so as to selectively control the aspiration pressure within aspirationline 52.

Pressure sensor 63 is operably connected to a control system mounted inconsole 40. Pressure sensor 63 detects and communicates pressure changesin aspiration line 52 during operation of the phacoemulsificationmachine. In one exemplary configuration, predetermined pressurethresholds can be set within the control system such that when pressurereadings from pressure sensor 63 exceed those thresholds, the controlsystem may selectively modify the aspiration pressure within aspirationline 52. For example, if the pressure sensor 63 detects that theaspiration pressure has exceed the predetermined pressure threshold,console 40 triggers movement of vent valve 62 within vent line 60 by apredetermined amount to permit venting of aspiration line 52 sufficientto drop the aspiration pressure below the pre-set threshold. Thus,pressure sensor 63, vent valve 62 and the control system cooperate topermit real-time modulation of aspiration within aspiration line 52which permits a higher maximum aspiration level to be utilized, butstill providing effective occlusion break surges.

For example, referring back to FIG. 3, channel 66 of vent valve 62 ispositioned such that first and second openings 68 and 69 are positionedout of alignment with vent line 60. In this position, vent valve 62 isin a “fully closed” position thereby blocking vent line 60 and providingunimpeded aspiration pressure to aspiration line 52. If pressure sensor63 detects that aspiration pressure has increased within aspiration line52 above the threshold level, vent valve 62 may be selectively moved bya predetermined amount so as to move first and second openings 68 and 69into at least partial alignment, thereby partially opening aspirationexhaust line 54/54′. This action quickly and effectively restores theaspiration pressure within aspiration line 52 to a predeterminedacceptable amount, without requiring pump reversal. However, it isunderstood that due to the configuration of channel 66, a variety ofaspiration pressures may be achieved by selective movement of the ventvalve 62.

Vent valve 62 is operably connected to an actuator, such as a motor 71,having an angular position encoder (such as encoder 36). One suchexemplary motor 71 includes a stepper motor. When pressure sensor 63detects that aspiration pressure has exceed a predetermined threshold,the controller may automatically operate motor 71 to rotate vent valve62 to a predetermined angular position, thereby quickly changingaspiration pressure within aspiration line 52. Further, the controller,in cooperation with a pressure sensor positioned in irrigation line 50,may be configured to detect and minimize an occlusion break onset. Morespecifically, vent valve 62 may be automatically rotated by motor 71 toreduced aspiration pressure within aspiration line 52. This functionwould operate to lessen an effect of a post occlusion break surge.Because vent valve 62 permits selective and dynamic control ofaspiration levels within aspiration line 52, vacuum levels may be easilymodulated for the user's preference, thereby providing quicker and moreefficient lens removal.

Referring now to FIG. 5, components of an alternative exemplary phacofluidics system 100 for use with a positive displacement pumping systemis shown. Phaco fluidics system 100 includes many of the same componentsas shown and described above in connection with FIG. 3. Accordingly,like components have been given the same reference numbers. For adescription of those components, reference is made to the discussionabove with respect to FIG. 3.

In phaco fluidics system 100, an aspiration exhaust line 54′ extendsfrom pump 20 and is fluidly connected to a drain bag 58. Alternatively,as shown in FIG. 3, phaco fluidics system 100 may include an exhaustline 54 that is fluidly connected to a drain line reservoir.

An aspiration vent line 160 is fluidly connected between aspiration line52 and atmosphere 102. A variable vent valve 62 is fluidly connected toaspiration vent line 160 so as to selectively control the aspirationpressure within aspiration line 52. Pressure sensor 63 is also in fluidcommunication with aspiration line 52.

As discussed above, vent valve 62 is configured to provide a variableorifice size to selectively modulate vacuum, thereby allowingunidirectional rotation of pump 20 to generate flow/vacuum, whilepermitting selective control of vacuum/aspiration to handpiece 42 basedon angular position of vent valve 62. Vent valve 62 is configured to beselectively rotatable to dynamically control aspiration withinaspiration line 52.

As discussed above, in operation, pressure sensor 63 is operablyconnected to a control system mounted in console 40. Pressure sensor 63detects and communicates pressure changes in aspiration line 52 duringoperation of the phacoemulsification machine. In one exemplaryconfiguration, predetermined pressure thresholds are set by the userswithin the control system. Accordingly, when pressure sensor 63 detectsan aspiration pressure level that exceeds the pre-set thresholds, thecontrol system moves vent valve 62 by a predetermined amount to reducethe aspiration pressure within aspiration line 52 by positioning channel66 in vent valve 62 in at least partial communication with atmosphere102. It is also understood that vent valve 62 may be fully opened toatmosphere 102 to effectively fully vent aspiration line 52. It is alsounderstood that vent valve 62 may be selectively moved to fully closevent line 160 to atmosphere 102, thereby effectively providing fullvacuum/aspiration pressure in aspiration line 52 to tip member 46.Movement of vent valve 62 to selectively adjust the aspiration pressurewithin aspiration line 52 may be accomplished either manually (e.g.,selective operation of a footswitch treadle based on prior usersettings) or automatically by motor 71 that is operatively connected tothe control system.

Referring now to FIG. 6, components of another alternative exemplaryphaco fluidics system 200 for use with a positive displacement pumpingsystem is shown. Phaco fluidics system 200 includes many of the samecomponents as shown and described above in connection with FIGS. 3 and5. Accordingly, like components have been given the same referencenumbers. For a detailed discussion of those components, reference ismade to the discussion above with respect to FIG. 3.

An aspiration vent line 260 is fluidly connected between aspiration line52 and a vent pressure source 202. Examples of suitable vent pressuresources include, but are not limited to, a pressurized fluid or saline.Variable vent valve 62 is fluidly connected to aspiration vent line 260so as to selectively control the aspiration pressure within aspirationline 52. Pressure sensor 63 is also in fluid communication withaspiration line 52.

Vent valve 62 is configured to provide a variable orifice size toselectively modulate vacuum, thereby allowing unidirectional rotation ofpump 20 in a first direction to generate flow/vacuum, while permittingselective control of vacuum/aspiration to handpiece 42 based on theangular position of vent valve 62.

Pressure sensor 63 is operably connected to a control system mounted inconsole 40 and detects and communicates pressure changes in aspirationline 52 during operation of the phacoemulsification machine. In oneexemplary configuration, predetermined pressure thresholds are setwithin the control system such that when pressure readings from pressuresensor 63 exceed those thresholds, vent valve 62 is moved by apredetermined amount to reduce the aspiration pressure within aspirationline 52. This is accomplished by positioning channel 66 in vent valve 62in at least partial communication with a vent pressure source 202,thereby opening vent line 260, and permitting pressurized fluid (forexample) to enter into aspiration line 52. Motor 71 may be operablyconnected to vent valve 62 to automatically move vent valve 62 by apredetermined amount to automatically control the level ofvacuum/aspiration pressure in aspiration line 52 based on informationreceived from sensor 63. It is also understood that vent valve 62 may befully opened to vent pressure source 202 to effectively negateaspiration pressure in aspiration line 52, without need to interruptpump 20 operation. Alternatively, it is also understood that vent valve62 may be fully closed, i.e., channel 66 being positioned completely outof alignment with vent line 260, such that vent pressure source 202 isnot in communication with vent line 260. This configuration effectivelyprovides full vacuum/aspiration pressure in aspiration line 52 to tipmember 46.

Referring now to FIG. 7, components of a yet another alternativeexemplary phaco fluidics system 300 for use with a positive displacementpumping system is shown. Phaco fluidics system 300 includes many of thesame components as shown and described above in connection with FIGS. 3and 5-6. Accordingly, like components have been given the same referencenumbers. For a detailed discussion of those components, reference ismade to the discussion above with respect to FIG. 3.

An aspiration vent line 360 is fluidly connected between aspiration line52 and irrigation line 50. Variable vent valve 62 is fluidly connectedto aspiration vent line 360 so as to selectively control the aspirationpressure within aspiration line 52. A pressure sensor 63 is also influid communication with aspiration line 52.

Vent valve 62 is configured to provide a variable orifice size toselectively modulate vacuum, thereby allowing uninterruptedunidirectional rotation of pump 20 in a first direction to generateflow/vacuum, while permitting selective control of vacuum/aspiration tohandpiece 42 based on angular position of vent valve 62.

Pressure sensor 63 is operably connected to a control system mounted inconsole 40 and detects and communicates pressure changes in aspirationline 52 during operation of the phacoemulsification machine. In oneexemplary configuration, predetermined pressure thresholds are setwithin the control system such that when pressure readings from pressuresensor 63 exceed those thresholds, vent valve 62 may be selectivelymoved by a predetermined amount to reduce, for example, the aspirationpressure within aspiration line 52. For example, channel 66 in ventvalve 62 is moved so as to be in at least partial alignment with ventline 360, thereby placing aspiration line 52 in at least partialcommunication with irrigation line 50 by a predetermined amount toautomatically control the level of vacuum/aspiration pressure inaspiration line 52 based on information received from sensor 63. It isunderstood that vent valve 62 may be fully opened to irrigation line 50to effectively negate aspiration pressure in aspiration line 52.Alternatively, it is also understood that vent valve 62 may bepositioned so as to fully close irrigation line 50, thereby effectivelyproviding full vacuum/aspiration pressure in aspiration line 52 to tipmember 46. In such a configuration, channel 66 is fully aligned withvent line 360.

Referring now to FIG. 8, components of yet another alternative exemplaryphaco fluidics system 400 for use with a positive displacement pumpingsystem is shown. Phaco fluidics system 400 includes many of the samecomponents as shown and described above in connection with FIGS. 3 and5-7.

Phaco fluidics system 400 includes infusion sleeve 44 of handpiece 42that is connected to an irrigation source 448 by irrigation line 50.Phaco fluidics system 400 may also include a multi-position irrigationvalve 464 that is fluidly connected to and positioned at a three-wayjunction between an irrigation supply line 473, irrigation line 50 and ashunt line 476. An irrigation line pressure sensor 475 may be positionedin irrigation line 50 between shunt line 476 and infusion sleeve 42.Handpiece 42 may also be provided with a handpiece pressure sensor 443.

While irrigation source 448 may be any suitable irrigation source, inone exemplary arrangement, irrigation source 448 is pressurized. Morespecifically, an irrigation bag 449 may be provided that is positionedagainst a platform 451 and a pressurizing force, represented by arrows453, is applied to irrigation bag 449 so as to force infusion fluid outof irrigation bag 449 and into irrigation supply line 473. Otherpressurized fluid systems are also contemplated.

Tip member 46 is connected to input port 53 of a peristaltic pump 420 byaspiration line 52. While any suitable pump arrangement may be utilized,in one exemplary configuration, pump 420 is a pump such as described inU.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20100286651, entitled “MultipleSegmented Peristaltic Pump and Cassette” or a pump such as described inU.S. Pat. No. 6,962,488, entitled “Surgical Cassette Having anAspiration Pressure Sensor, the contents of both of which areincorporated by reference in their entirety. Aspiration exhaust line 54extends from pump 420 and is fluidly connected to a vent reservoir 456.Vent reservoir 546 is fluidly connected to a drain bag 58.

An aspiration vent line 460 is fluidly connected between aspiration line52 and vent reservoir 456, so as to bypass pump 420. Variable vent valve62 is fluidly connected to aspiration vent line 460 so as to selectivelycontrol the aspiration pressure within aspiration line 52. An aspirationpressure sensor 63 is also in fluid communication with aspiration line52. Vent valve 62 is configured to provide a variable orifice sizewithin vent line 460 to selectively modulate vacuum, thereby allowingunidirectional rotation of pump 420 in a first direction to generateflow/vacuum, while permitting selective control of vacuum/aspiration tohandpiece 42 based on the angular position of vent valve 62.

In operation, pressure sensor 63 is operably connected to a controlsystem mounted in console 40. Pressure sensor 63 detects andcommunicates pressure changes in aspiration line 52 during operation ofthe phacoemulsification machine. In one exemplary configuration,predetermined pressure thresholds are set within the control system suchthat when pressure readings from pressure sensor 63 exceed thosethresholds, vent valve 62 may be selectively moved by a predeterminedamount to reduce the aspiration pressure within aspiration line 52. Thisis accomplished by positioning channel 66 in vent valve 62 in at leastpartial communication with vent line 460. Because vent line 460 isoperably connected to vent reservoir 456, the partial communication ofchannel 66 with vent line 460 effectively reduces aspiration pressurewithin aspiration line 52. Movement of vent valve 62 may be accomplishedby motor 71 that is connected to vent valve 62. More specifically, motor71 may be configured to automatically move vent valve 62 by apredetermined amount to automatically control the level ofvacuum/aspiration pressure in aspiration line 52 based on informationreceived from sensor 63. It is understood that vent valve 62 may beoriented to a fully opened position to fully vent aspiration line tovent reservoir 456 to effectively close off input port 53 to pump 420.Alternatively, it is also understood that vent valve 62 may be fullyclosed, i.e., such that channel 66 is out of alignment with vent line460, thereby closing vent reservoir 456 to aspiration line 52, therebyeffectively providing full vacuum/aspiration pressure in aspiration line52 to tip member 46.

As stated above, phaco fluidics system 400 also provides amulti-position irrigation valve 464 that is positioned at a junctionbetween irrigation supply line 473, irrigation line 50 and shunt line476. As explained in further detail below, irrigation valve 464 isconfigured as a rotary valve that may be operatively positioned toselectively control irrigation in phaco fluidics system 400. As shown inFIG. 9A, in one exemplary arrangement, multi-position irrigation valve464 includes an intersecting channel configuration 474. Morespecifically, channel 474 includes a first branch 474A, a second branch474B and a third branch 474C. While shown as having a T-shapedconfiguration, it is understood that other intersecting configurationmay be utilized, depending on the configuration of the various fluidlines in fluidics system 400.

In operation, as shown in FIG. 8, when irrigation valve 464 is orientedsuch that first branch 474A is fully aligned with irrigation supply line473 and third branch 474B is fully aligned with irrigation line 50, butsecond branch 474C is oriented out of alignment with shunt line 476,normal, full irrigation flow is provided to irrigation line 50. However,to prime irrigation supply 448 of phaco fluidics system 400, irrigationvalve 464 may be selectively rotated such that first branch 474A isfully aligned with shunt line 476 and third branch 474C is fully alignedwith irrigation supply line 473. Accordingly, when phaco fluidics system400 is operated, fluid from irrigation supply 448 is directed to drainbag 58. To prime irrigation pressure sensor 475, irrigation valve 464may be selectively rotated such that second arm 474B is fully alignedwith shunt line 476 and third arm 474C is fully aligned with irrigationline 50.

While the various branches of irrigation valve 464 shown in FIG. 8 hasbeen described as operating so as to be fully aligned with either theirrigation line 50, shunt line 476 and irrigation supply line 473, it isalso understood that branches 474 a-474 c need not be fully aligned withthe respective lines 50, 476, and 473. Indeed, irrigation valve 464 maybe configured to be selectively positioned so as to effectively controlthe amount of fluid to be delivered to eye 47. Indeed, in some patients,a full irrigation flow (such a shown in FIG. 8), may lead to patientdiscomfort, while a controlled opening whereby certain branches ofirrigation valve 464 is positioned at various angular positions withrespect to irrigation line 50 may be desirable. Thus, similar to ventvalve 62, irrigation valve 464 may also be configured for variableirrigation delivery.

Another alternative configuration for a multi-position irrigation valveis shown in FIG. 9B. In this arrangement, a multi-position irrigationvalve 464′ is provided having an L-shaped pathway formed therein.Multi-position irrigation valve 464′ includes a first branch 474A′ and asecond branch 474B′. Use of multi-position irrigation valve 464′ will bedescribed below in connection with FIGS. 10A-10C.

Referring to FIGS. 10A-10C, components of another alternative exemplaryphaco fluidics system 400′ for use with a positive displacement pumpingsystem is shown. Phaco fluidics system 400′ includes many of the samecomponents as shown and described above in connection with FIGS. 3 and5-8. In some embodiments, the components inside of the dashed box may atleast partially be included in a fluidics cassette configured to besecured to a surgical console.

Phaco fluidics system 400′ includes infusion sleeve 44 of handpiece 42that is connected to an irrigation source 448 by irrigation line 50. Amulti-position irrigation valve 464′ is fluidly connected to andpositioned at a three-way junction between an irrigation supply line473, irrigation line 50 and a shunt line 476. An irrigation linepressure sensor 475 may be positioned in irrigation line 50 betweenirrigation supply 448 and handpiece 42. While irrigation source 448 maybe any suitable irrigation source, in one exemplary arrangement,irrigation source 448 includes an irrigation container that utilizesgravity to force infusion fluid out of the irrigation container and intoirrigation supply line 473.

Multi-position irrigation valve 464′ may be configured as a rotary valvethat may be operatively positioned to selective control irrigation inphaco fluidics system 400′. Thus, in operation, as shown in FIG. 10A,when irrigation valve 464′ is oriented such that first branch 474A′ isaligned with irrigation line 50 and second branch 474B′ is oriented soas to be out of alignment with irrigation supply line 473 and shunt line476, no irrigation is supplied to irrigation line 50.

Referring now to FIG. 10B, to supply irrigation to handpiece 42,irrigation valve 464′ may be selectively rotated such that first branch474A′ is at least partially aligned with irrigation supply line 473 andsecond branch 474B′ is at least partially aligned with irrigation line50. Accordingly, fluid from irrigation supply 448 is directed throughirrigation supply line 473, to irrigation line 50 through irrigationvalve 464′ and to handpiece 42. As with irrigation valve 464, it may bedesirable to selectively position first and second branches 474A′ and474B′ so as to effectively control the amount of fluid to be deliveredto eye 47. Thus, it is contemplated that irrigation line 50 may besubject to a controlled opening with irrigation supply line 473, wherebyfirst and second branches 474A′ and 474B′ of irrigation valve 464′ ispositioned at various angular positions to provide less than fullirrigation flow through irrigation line 50. Thus, similar to vent valve62, irrigation valve 464′ may also be configured for variable irrigationdelivery.

FIG. 10C illustrates a priming operation for irrigation supply 448 ofphaco fluidics system 400′ by actuation of irrigation valve 464′. Morespecifically, irrigation valve 464′ may be selectively rotated such thatfirst branch 474A′ is at least partially aligned with shunt line 476 andsecond branch 474B′ is at least partially aligned with irrigation supplyline 473. Accordingly, when phaco fluidics system 400 is operated, fluidfrom irrigation supply 448 is directed to drain bag 58.

While multi-position irrigation valves 464 and 464′ have both beendescribed in connection with a phaco fluidics system 400 that alsoincorporates a variable vent valve 62, it is understood that the scopeof the present disclosure is not limited to a phaco fluidics system 400that includes both a multi-position irrigation valve 464/464′ and avariable vent valve 62. Further, multi-position irrigation valves464/464′ are capable of operating in an “on/off” type fashion, or, asdescribed above, multi-position irrigation valves 464/464′ may also beconfigured to provide a variable orifice so as to selectively controlthe amount of irrigation, in a manner similar to that which has beenpreviously described in connection with variable vent valve 62. Forexample, the amount of irrigation to be provided to handpiece 42 fromirrigation supply line 473 may be selectively controlled by amulti-position variable irrigation line, such that less than fullirrigation from irrigation supply line 473 may be supplied to irrigationline 50 (and thus handpiece 42). In such an instance, multi-positionvariable irrigation valve 464/464′ is selectively rotated so as toprovide only partial communication with both irrigation supply line 473and irrigation line 50.

Referring now to FIG. 11, components of a yet another alternativeexemplary phaco fluidics system 500 for use with a positive displacementpumping system is shown. Phaco fluidics system 500 includes many of thesame components as shown and described above in connection with FIGS. 3,and 5-10. Accordingly, like components have been given the samereference numbers. For a detailed discussion of those components,reference is made to the discussion above with respect to FIG. 3.

Phaco fluidics system 500 includes infusion sleeve 44 of handpiece 42that is connected to irrigation source 48 by an irrigation supply line549 that is fluidly connected to an irrigation line 50. An aspirationexhaust line 54 extends from pump 20. In one exemplary arrangement,aspiration exhaust line 54 is fluidly connected to a drain linereservoir 56. Reservoir 56 may also drain into an optional drain bag 58.Alternatively, as shown in phantom, exhaust line 54′ may be fluidlyconnected directly to drain bag 58.

An aspiration vent line 560 is fluidly connected between aspiration line52 and irrigation line 50. A multi-purpose proportional valve 562 isfluidly connected between aspiration vent line 560 and irrigation line50 so as to selectively control the aspiration pressure withinaspiration line 52 and irrigation flow within irrigation line 50.Pressure sensor 63 is also in fluid communication with aspiration line52.

Multi-purpose valve 562 is configured to provide a variable orifice sizeto selectively modulate aspiration, thereby allowing unidirectionalrotation of pump 20 in a first direction to generate flow/vacuum, whilepermitting selective control of vacuum/aspiration to handpiece 42 basedon the angular position of multi-purpose valve 62, as well as providingirrigation control. More specifically, in one exemplary configuration,referring to FIGS. 12A-12B, the body of multi-purpose valve 562 isdefined by a periphery 570. The body has a first flow path 563A formedin one portion of the periphery 570 and a second flow path 563B formedin another portion of the periphery 570.

Referring back to FIG. 12A, in operation, multi-purpose valve 562 isselectively rotatable within a groove 600 formed in cassette 28. Morespecifically, operably connected to groove 600 are a plurality of fluidlines that are selectively connectable to one another via the angularposition of multi-purpose valve 562. For example, in phaco fluidicssystem 500 shown in FIG. 11, multi-purpose valve 562 serves tooperatively connect irrigation supply line 549, irrigation line 50,aspiration line 52 and aspiration exhaust line 54/54′ via first andsecond flow paths 563A, 563B. Multi-purpose valve 562 is moveable withingroove 600 so as to provide a variety of connection arrangements withrespect to aspiration line 52, irrigation line 50, irrigation supplyline 549 and aspiration exhaust line 54/54′ may be achieved, as will beexplained in further detail below.

Pressure sensor 63 is operably connected to a control system mounted inconsole 40 and is configured to detect and communicate pressure changesin aspiration line 52 during operation of the phacoemulsificationmachine. In one exemplary configuration, predetermined pressurethresholds are set within the control system such that when pressurereadings from pressure sensor 63 exceed those thresholds, the controlsystem may selectively move multi-purpose valve 562 by a predeterminedamount to reduce the aspiration pressure within aspiration line 52. Morespecifically, second flow path 563B in multi-purpose valve 562 ismoveable with respect to aspiration vent line 560.

For example, multi-purpose valve 562 may be positioned within groove 600and selectively rotated such that second flow path 563B fully closesaspiration vent line 560 off from aspiration line 52, such that fullvacuum, as dictated by the user's pre-selected pressure settings, isprovided. However, if pressure has increased within aspiration line 52by an undesirable amount (such as, for example, because of an occlusionbreak surge), multi-purpose valve 562 may be selectively moved by apredetermined amount such that second flow path 563B operativelyconnects aspiration line 54/54′ directly to aspiration line 52, viaaspiration vent line 560, thereby bypassing pump 20. This action quicklyand effectively restores the aspiration pressure within aspiration line52 to the predetermined acceptable amount, without requiring pumpreversal.

In one exemplary arrangement, multi-purpose valve 562 may be operablyconnected to a footswitch treadle. Accordingly, the user may operate thefootswitch treadle to rotate multi-purpose valve 562 to selectively vent(e.g., by lifting his/her foot from the treadle) aspiration line 52. Thefootswitch treadle may be configured to rotate multi-purpose valve 562by a predetermined amount and in a predetermined direction, based on thecontrol system settings, based on user input. Due to the configurationof second flow path 563B, a variety of aspiration pressures may beachieved by selective movement of multi-purpose valve 562. In someexemplary situations, it may be desirable to fully open exhaust line54/54′, thereby fully venting aspiration line 52.

In another exemplary arrangement, multi-purpose valve 562 is operablyconnected to a motor 71, such as a stepper motor, having an angularposition encoder (such as encoder 36). When pressure sensor 63 detectsthat aspiration pressure has exceed a predetermined threshold, thecontroller automatically operates motor 71 to rotate multi-purpose valve562 to a predetermined position, thereby quickly changing aspirationpressure within aspiration line 52. As the controller, in cooperationwith pressure sensor 63, may be configured to detect an occlusion breakonset, multi-purpose valve 562 may be automatically rotated by motor 71to reduced aspiration pressure within aspiration line 52 belowpredetermined settings. This function would operate to lessen the postocclusion surge. Because multi-purpose valve 562 permits selective anddynamic control of aspiration levels within aspiration line 52, highervacuum rates may be selected and employed by the user for quicker andmore efficient lens removal.

In addition to selectively controlling the aspiration levels within thesystem 500, multi-purpose valve 562 also serves an additional purpose,namely controlling irrigation through irrigation line 50. Morespecifically, first flow path 563A is configured to selectively connectirrigation supply line 549 to irrigation line 50 when first flow path563A is in communication with both irrigation supply line 549 andirrigation line 50. However, multi-purpose valve 562 may be selectivelyrotated such that first flow path 563A is placed out of communicationwith irrigation supply line 549, thereby effectively closing offirrigation.

Moreover, the configuration of multi-purpose valve 562 also permits theselective control of the aspiration level while simultaneouslycontrolling irrigation. For example, multi-purpose valve 562 and fluidlines 549, 50, 54/54′, and 52 are configured such that when first flowpath 563A is in communication with both irrigation line 50 andirrigation supply line 549, second flow path 563B is only incommunication with exhaust line 54/54′, leaving aspiration line 52closed to exhaust line 54/54′. In this arrangement, irrigation issupplied to handpiece 42 and vent line 560 is closed. Alternatively,multi-purpose valve 562 may be rotated slightly from the “irrigationline open, vent line closed” position such that second flow path 563B isopen to both aspiration line 52 and exhaust line 54/54′, while firstflow path 563A is in communication with both irrigation line 50 andirrigation supply line 549. In this configuration, irrigation is beingsupplied to handpiece 42 and aspiration line 52 is operatively connectedto exhaust line 54/54′ thereby reducing, if not eliminating aspirationpressure within aspiration line 52. This design effectively eliminates avalve element from system 500, while still providing for selectivelyvarying aspiration pressure and selectively controlling irrigation.

Referring now to FIG. 13, a partial schematic of an alternativeaspiration circuit 700 for use in a phaco fluidics system is shown.Aspiration circuit 700 employs both displacement-based and/orvacuum-based aspiration modes. Aspiration circuit 700 includes anaspiration line 752 that fluidly connects to handpiece 742 to either aninput port 753 of peristaltic pump 720 or an input port 731 of a venturireservoir 760. Aspiration exhaust lines 754/754′ extend from input port731 of venturi reservoir 760 and input port 753 of peristaltic pump 720,respectively. While prior art configurations used separate valves toclose and open input port 731 of venturi reservoir 760 and to provideselective venting of aspiration line 752 to a drain bag 758, aspirationcircuit 700 employs a multi-purpose valve 732 that is disposed within asealed groove of a cassette (similar to that shown in FIG. 12A above)that provides both functions.

More specifically, referring to FIGS. 14A-14C, in one exemplaryarrangement multi-purpose valve 732 is configured with a channel 763that is defined by a first opening 765 and a second opening 767. In oneexemplary arrangement, second opening 767 may be configured with anoutwardly extending flare. Alternatively, channel 763 may be configuredwith a triangular shape that flares outwardly toward a periphery 770 ofmulti-purpose valve 732. First opening 765 is positioned transverse tochannel 763. Second opening is formed through a periphery 770 ofmulti-purpose valve 732.

Referring to FIG. 14A, during operation, multi-purpose valve 732 may bepositioned such that aspiration is delivered to aspiration line 752 bypump 720. In this configuration, multi-purpose valve 732 is selectivelyrotated such that input line 731 to venturi reservoir is closed andaspiration exhaust line 754 is closed off from aspiration line 752. Inthis configuration, full aspiration is provided by pump 720.

A pressure sensor 769 may be positioned in input line 753 to detect andmonitor the pressure in aspiration line 752. Pressure sensor 769 isoperably connected to a control system mounted in a console. Pressuresensor 769 detects and communicates pressure changes in aspiration line752 during operation of the phacoemulsification machine. In oneexemplary configuration, predetermined pressure thresholds can be setwithin the control system such that when pressure readings from pressuresensor 769 exceed those thresholds, the system prompts movement ofmulti-purpose valve 732 by a predetermined amount to reduce theaspiration pressure within aspiration line 52. More specifically,referring to FIG. 14B, multi-purpose valve 732 may be rotated such thatsecond opening 767 of channel 763 is in at least partial fluidcommunication with aspiration exhaust line 754. Thus, if pressure hasincreased within aspiration line 752 by an undesirable amount (such as,for example, because of an occlusion break surge), multi-purpose valve732 may be selectively moved by a predetermined amount so as topartially open aspiration exhaust line 754, as shown in FIG. 14B. Thisaction quickly and effectively restores the aspiration pressure withinaspiration line 752 to the predetermined acceptable amount, withoutrequiring pump reversal. It is understood, however, that channel 763 maybe rotated such that aspiration line 752 is fully opened to aspirationexhaust line 754, if need be.

As discussed above, multi-purpose valve 732 may also be used to switchaspiration source from pump 720 to venturi reservoir 760. Referring toFIG. 14C, in this configuration, channel 763 is positioned such thatsecond opening 767 is in communication with input 731 of venturireservoir 760, thereby connecting aspiration line 752 to venturireservoir 760. However, aspiration exhaust line 754 is sealed off fromaspiration line 752.

In some embodiments, a fluidics system for use in a surgical system mayinclude an aspiration circuit (comprising an aspiration line operativelyconnected to a surgical instrument, an aspiration exhaust lineoperatively connected to a waste receptacle, an aspiration vent lineconnected at a first end to the aspiration line, and a selectivelyvariable valve operatively connected to the aspiration vent line(wherein the variable valve may be selectively actuated to selectivelychange aspiration pressure within the aspiration line)) and anirrigation circuit (comprising an irrigation source, an irrigationsupply line connected to the irrigation source, and an irrigation linehaving a first end operatively connected to the irrigation supply lineand a second end operatively connected to the surgical device). Thefluidics system may further include a shunt path, wherein a first end ofthe shunt path is operatively connected to the irrigation supply lineand a second end of the shunt path is connected to the waste receptacle.The fluidics system may further include a selectively positionableirrigation valve that operatively connects the irrigation supply line,the irrigation line, and the shunt path such that the selectivelypositionable irrigation valve may be moved to direct irrigation from theirrigation supply line. In some embodiments, the irrigation valve may bea rotary valve and include an intersecting channel formed therein, thechannel defining a first branch, a second branch, and a third branch. Insome embodiments, the irrigation valve is selectively moveable between afirst position, a second position and a third position, wherein in thefirst position, the first branch is positioned in communication with theirrigation supply line and the second branch is positioned incommunication with the irrigation line; wherein in the second position,the first branch is positioned in communication with the shunt path andthe third branch is in communication with the irrigation supply line;and wherein in the third position, the first branch is positioned incommunication with the irrigation line, the second branch is positionedin communication with irrigation supply line and the third branch ispositioned in communication with the shunt path. In some embodiments,the variable valve may also be connected to the irrigation line suchthat the variable valve may be selectively moved to selectivelyinterrupt fluid flow in the irrigation line and to selectively varyaspiration pressure within the aspiration line. In some embodiments, thevariable valve may be configured with first and second flow paths formedtherein, wherein the first flow path may be selectively aligned with theirrigation supply line and the irrigation line to open the irrigationline to the irrigation supply source, and wherein the second flow pathmay be selectively aligned with the aspiration line and the aspirationexhaust line to selectively vary aspiration pressure within theaspiration line.

In some embodiments, an aspiration circuit for a fluidics system forselectively controlling aspiration may include an aspiration lineoperatively connected to a surgical instrument, a first aspirationexhaust line operatively connected to a waste receptacle, a secondaspiration exhaust line operatively connected to a waste receptacle, adisplacement-based aspiration source operatively connected to the firstaspiration exhaust line, a vacuum-based aspiration source operativelyconnected to the second aspiration exhaust line, and a selectivelyvariable valve operatively connected to both the displacement-basedaspiration source and the vacuum-based aspiration source; wherein thevariable valve may be actuated to selectively change aspiration pressurewithin the aspiration line when the displacement-based aspiration sourceis employed. In some embodiments, the variable valve may be selectivelyactuated to provide aspiration pressure to the aspiration line from thevacuum-based aspiration source. In some embodiments, thedisplacement-based aspiration source is a peristaltic pump and thevacuum-based aspiration source includes a venturi reservoir. In someembodiments, the variable valve further comprises a valve body thatincludes a channel that is defined by a first opening and a secondopening, wherein the first opening is positioned transverse to thelength of the channel and wherein the second opening is formed through aperiphery of the valve body.

It will be appreciated that the devices and methods described hereinhave broad applications. The foregoing embodiments were chosen anddescribed in order to illustrate principles of the methods andapparatuses as well as some practical applications. The precedingdescription enables others skilled in the art to utilize methods andapparatuses in various embodiments and with various modifications as aresuited to the particular use contemplated. In accordance with theprovisions of the patent statutes, the principles and modes of operationof this invention have been explained and illustrated in exemplaryembodiments.

It is intended that the scope of the present methods and apparatuses bedefined by the following claims. However, it must be understood thatthis invention may be practiced otherwise than is specifically explainedand illustrated without departing from its spirit or scope. It should beunderstood by those skilled in the art that various alternatives to theembodiments described herein may be employed in practicing the claimswithout departing from the spirit and scope as defined in the followingclaims. The scope of the invention should be determined, not withreference to the above description, but should instead be determinedwith reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope ofequivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is anticipated andintended that future developments will occur in the arts discussedherein, and that the disclosed systems and methods will be incorporatedinto such future examples. Furthermore, all terms used in the claims areintended to be given their broadest reasonable constructions and theirordinary meanings as understood by those skilled in the art unless anexplicit indication to the contrary is made herein. In particular, useof the singular articles such as “a,” “the,” “said,” etc. should be readto recite one or more of the indicated elements unless a claim recitesan explicit limitation to the contrary. It is intended that thefollowing claims define the scope of the invention and that the methodand apparatus within the scope of these claims and their equivalents becovered thereby. In sum, it should be understood that the invention iscapable of modification and variation and is limited only by thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An aspiration circuit for a fluidics system forselectively controlling aspiration, comprising: an aspiration lineoperatively connected to a surgical instrument, an aspiration exhaustline operatively connected to a waste receptacle; an aspiration ventline connected at a first end to the aspiration line; and a selectivelyvariable vent valve operatively connected to the aspiration vent line,wherein the variable vent valve may be selectively moved to selectivelychange aspiration pressure within the aspiration line.
 2. The aspirationcircuit of claim 1, wherein the aspiration vent line is connected at asecond end to the aspiration exhaust line.
 3. The aspiration circuit ofclaim 1, wherein the aspiration vent line is connected at a second endto atmosphere.
 4. The aspiration circuit of claim 1, wherein theaspiration vent line is connected at a second end to a vent pressuresource of pressurized fluid or saline.
 5. The aspiration circuit ofclaim 1, wherein the aspiration vent line is connected at a second endto an irrigation line.
 6. The aspiration circuit of claim 1, wherein thevent valve is a rotary valve that further comprises an input opening, anoutput opening and a channel that connects the input channel to theoutput channel.
 7. The aspiration circuit of claim 6, wherein the ventvalve may be selectively rotated to selectively position the aspirationline in at least partial communication with the aspiration vent line. 8.The aspiration circuit of claim 1, further comprising: a pressure sensorand an actuator, the pressure sensor being operatively connected to theaspiration line and the actuator being operatively connected to the ventvalve, wherein the pressure sensor and actuator are connected to acontroller, and wherein the controller is operative to initiate theactuator to move the vent valve in response to predetermined pressurevalues detected by the pressure sensor to vary the aspiration pressurewithin the aspiration line.
 9. The aspiration circuit of claim 8,wherein the actuator is a motor.
 10. The aspiration circuit of claim 1,wherein the variable vent valve is operatively connected to anirrigation line such that the variable vent valve may be selectivelymoved so as to selectively interrupt fluid flow in the irrigation lineand to selectively vary aspiration pressure within the aspiration line.11. The aspiration circuit of claim 10, wherein the variable vent valveis configured with first and second flow paths formed therein, whereinthe first flow path may be selectively, and at least partially, alignedwith an irrigation supply line and the irrigation line to open theirrigation line to an irrigation supply source, and wherein the secondflow path may be selectively, and at least partially, aligned with theaspiration line and the aspiration exhaust line to selectively vary theaspiration pressure within the aspiration line.
 12. An irrigationcircuit for a fluidics system for use in a surgical system, comprising:an irrigation source; an irrigation supply line connected to theirrigation source; an irrigation line having a first end operativelyconnected to the irrigation supply line and a second end operativelyconnected to a surgical device; and a selectively positionableirrigation valve that operatively connects the irrigation supply line tothe irrigation line.
 13. The irrigation circuit of claim 12, furthercomprising a shunt path, wherein a first end of the shunt path isoperatively connected to the irrigation supply line and a second end ofthe shunt path is connected to a waste receptacle.
 14. The irrigationcircuit of claim 13, wherein the selectively positionable irrigationvalve operatively connects the irrigation supply line, the irrigationline, and the shunt path.
 15. The irrigation circuit of claim 14,wherein the irrigation valve is a rotary valve and includes a pathwayhaving at least two intersecting branches therein.
 16. The irrigationcircuit of claim 15, wherein the irrigation valve includes first andsecond branches and is selectively moveable between a first position, asecond position and a third position; wherein in the first position,only the first branch is positioned in communication with one of theirrigation supply line and the irrigation line; wherein in the secondposition, a first branch is in communication with the irrigation supplyline and a second branch is in communication with the irrigation line;and wherein in the third position, the first branch is in communicationwith the shunt line and the second branch is in communication with theirrigation supply line.
 17. The irrigation circuit of claim 15, whereinthe irrigation valve includes three branches therein.
 18. The irrigationcircuit of claim 17, wherein the irrigation valve includes first, secondand third branches and is selectively moveable between a first position,a second position and a third position, wherein in the first position,the first branch is positioned in communication with the irrigationsupply line and the second branch is positioned in communication withthe irrigation line; wherein in the second position, the first branch ispositioned in communication with the shunt path and the third branch isin communication with the irrigation supply line; and wherein in thethird position, the first branch is positioned in communication with theirrigation line, the second branch is positioned in communication withthe irrigation supply line and the third branch is positioned incommunication with the shunt path.
 19. The irrigation circuit of claim12, wherein the irrigation valve is configured as a variable valve suchthat the amount of irrigation being supplied to the irrigation line maybe selectively varied.
 20. A fluidics cassette for selectivelycontrolling aspiration and irrigation in a fluidics system, comprising:an aspiration line that is configured to connect to an externalaspiration line connected to a surgical device; an aspiration exhaustline; an aspiration vent line connected at a first end to the aspirationline; and a selectively variable vent valve operatively connected to theaspiration vent line, wherein the variable vent valve may be selectivelymoved to selectively change aspiration pressure within the aspirationline; an irrigation supply line; an irrigation line having a first endoperatively connected to the irrigation supply line and a second endthat is configured to connect to an external irrigation line connectedto the surgical device; and a selectively positionable irrigation valvethat operatively connects the irrigation supply line to the irrigationline.